Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on Wednesday announced a hospital measles cluster caused by an imported measles case from Vietnam.
Four additional cases were reported, including a family caregiver, an ER nurse, a cleaner, and a passenger from the same flight as the initial patient. In total, five cases are linked to the outbreak, with symptoms appearing between December 11 and 13.
Authorities are monitoring 152 close contacts and have strengthened infection control measures. Hospitals should verify staff MMR vaccination records, provide booster shots for those without immunity, enhance health monitoring, and cancel large events.
Taiwan has reported 19 measles cases this year including 10 local transmissions and nine imported cases, the highest in five years. The CDC reminds the public that measles is a highly contagious disease and advises that people should avoid hospitals and crowded areas, and practice respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette.
The CDC urges doctors to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspected measles cases. Individuals showing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately and inform their doctors about recent travel or possible exposure. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles, and the CDC strongly encourages parents to ensure children over one year old are vaccinated.